Importance

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Abstract

Method and apparatus for obtaining quantitative velocity profile measurements and for displaying the same are disclosed. From such velocity measurements, instantaneous volume flow within a vessel across which the measurements are obtained is calculated. In one operating mode, a real-time display of quantitative velocity profiles is provided together with a scrolling display of a plurality of total instantaneous volume flow measurements. In another operating mode, velocity profiles obtained at corresponding points in successive cardiac cycles are averaged to obtain a plurality of average velocity profiles which are selectively displayed under operator control. In this mode of operation, a fixed display of total instantaneous volume flow measurements obtained over a period of time which includes at least one cardiac cycle is provided. A movable pointer adjacent the display of total instantaneous volume flow values and under operator control is provided to identify the point in the cardiac cycle selected for display of an associated velocity profile. Means for calculating volume flow over a cardiac cycle, and for numerically displaying said average also is provided. Depth control means control both depth and gain functions of the pulsed Doppler system.

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First Claim